The International Development Secretary said such projects help to empower girls and women [GETTY - PIC POSED BY MODEL]

We have to work with the next generation of girls who are growing up in these countries and show them that there is a life ahead of them with opportunity

Justine Greening, International Development Secretary

But Ms Greening said: "If you're going to see change, we have to work with the next generation of girls who are growing up in these countries and show them that there is a life ahead of them with opportunity, with potential that goes beyond what many of them will experience."

She was also forced to defend £5million in aid going to a Bangladeshi version of the BBC One current affairs show Question Time.

Ms Greening said: "We are working with people to improve their ability to hold their governments to account, so they have channels and ways they can raise concerns."